What Should you Do if Under Investigation for a Sex Crime?

Being charged with a sex crime can be a very stressful and difficult situation to be in. While you are awaiting trial, you may find that people who used to be your close friends and acquaintances are skeptical to be around you as a result of the pending charges. Furthermore, your own romantic relationships can suffer as the result of such a charge. All of this pales in comparison, however, to the drastic changes that will occur in your life if it turns out that you are convicted of the sex crime.

Whether you have been charged with rape, sexual assault, or anything in between, there are some basic steps that you should follow as a way of giving yourself a fighting chance when it ultimately comes time to face your day in court. This remains true regardless of whether you believe yourself to be innocent or know you are guilty.

Remain Silent
More than likely, detectives and other members of law enforcement will try to get you to speak. They may act like they are on your side, but it is likely that they are actually looking for evidence that can later be used against you. Remember that you have a constitutional right to remain silent until you have an attorney present. In cases such as those involving sex crimes, it is best to exercise that right so as to avoid accidentally saying something that could be misconstrued and used against you later on.

Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
Once you have made your desire to speak with an attorney clear to detectives and other officers, you will have the right to find a qualified and experienced attorney to represent you prior to any further questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, you can have one appointed to you by the court; generally, however, it is best to choose your own attorney, even if this means having to work out a payment plan with him or her. This way, you can hire one that you know has success with cases such as yours in the past and that will truly fight for you.

Do Not Speak to the Other Party
Until your case has been settled, you should refrain from speaking or making any contact at all with the alleged “victim” or his or her attorney. It is not uncommon for the other party to attempt to contact the person being charged with the crime in an effort to get him or her to admit to it over the phone or in another manner that can be used against them. Avoid this possibility by not speaking with them at all.

Facing a sex crime charge can be very stressful, but following the above tips will give you the best chances for success.

Post by: The Law Offices of David Michael Cantor which is an AV rated law firm in Phoenix, AZ. If you have questions regarding Sex Crimes Defense in Arizona, please see our website.